New York State DMV Advises Drivers to Protect Themselves Against Vehicle Thefts
www.Longisland.com, Chris Boyle, July 8, 2025
During Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is providing vehicle owners with important steps to take to protect themselves from losing their vehicles, or parts of them, to thieves.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 850,000 drivers fall victim to this crime every year, with total losses worth approximately $8 billion.
“Summer is the busiest season for vehicle thefts, so it is a good time to remind New Yorkers about the steps they can take to protect their purchase,” said DMV Commissioner and Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder. “You can act to prevent your car from being stolen, and there are ways you can check to be sure a vehicle you are thinking about buying has not been taken from someone else.”
Recent years have seen an increase in stolen vehicles. Between January 1 and June 30 of this year, DMV recovered 188 vehicles with a total value of almost $5.6 million. Sixteen stolen parts were also recovered, worth $72,598.
During that same time period in 2024, DMV recovered 120 vehicles totaling $3,553,167 and had recovered 31 stolen parts for $58,534. All told in 2024, DMV recovered 303 stolen vehicles worth more than $8,300,000 and recovered nearly $92,000 in stolen parts.
Governor Kathy Hochul has actively called for increased efforts to improve public safety and traffic safety by working to reduce theft. In 2023, she initiated a five-point plan called the Comprehensive Auto-Theft Reduction Strategy (CARS). As part of that plan, New York State Police has increased patrols in high theft areas and the State launched a vehicle theft prevention website to provide resources and education to help New Yorkers take their own measures to prevent auto theft.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Auto theft often involves complex, organized criminal operations that can span across multiple states. The magnitude of these thefts impacts the quality of life and financial stability for all New Yorkers who fall victim to these crimes. By remaining vigilant and taking the appropriate precautions, you can keep yourself and your vehicle protected from theft. Together, with our law enforcement partners, the State Police will continue the mission to reduce the number of vehicle thefts in New York State.” Continue article